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With rising national debt, many predict that tax rates will eventually increase to balance the budget. This perspective suggests you should consider paying taxes now, while rates are lower, rather than deferring them to the future when rates could rise.

What to know: Roth retirement accounts (taxed upfront but not upon withdrawal) may seem more appealing than traditional pre-tax accounts (defer taxation until withdrawal). However, while top marginal rates have declined, most Americans haven't experienced dramatic tax cuts due to fewer deductions and loopholes over time. This means future tax hikes may not simply increase rates, but could also limit existing strategies, possibly even Roth account benefits. Further, personal tax rates can change in retirement, creating opportunities to make pre-tax contributions while earning more and convert to Roth accounts after retirement at lower tax rates.

Key takeaways: Your tax strategy should consider the potential of rising national taxes. However, individual circumstances suggest that for many, it’s still advantageous to contribute to pre-tax accounts during peak earning years and withdraw or convert them when rates are lower in retirement.